With schools just about to close many mums will be looking for sitters or minders to watch their kids while they are off. And while camps and crèches are ideal at keeping the kids happy, some mums prefer to have a childminder who is more flexible and comes to the house.

 

If you are hoping to get a summer sitter, make sure you take note fo the following: 

 

1. Start now

There will be a lot of other parents on the hunt for sitters at the same time as you, so make sure you start now. Leaving it to the last minute can mean you are either going to be disappointed or left without one.

 

2. Be clear on your expectations

If you expect your sitter to play games, bake, do arts and crafts and take the kids on excursions, then you need to be clear about this from the onset. If you want them to help your little ones get on top of tough school subjects or to spend their holidays learning something new, then you need to choose a sitter who can fulfil these requests for you.

 

3. Be clear on how much you can pay

Be clear on how much you are paying so that both you and your prospective minder are on the same page. If you have a tight budget but are willing to offer a place to stay or other benefits do make these known to the person you are interviewing. To some, getting free accommodation can be more beneficial than money. 

 

 

4. Look at their qualifications

Unless you know the person really well or have been recommended them by someone else, make sure you ask for a list of their qualifications and experiences with kids. It can be a little worrisome leaving your children with strangers, but once you know that they are safe and with someone who is more than qualified it can put your mind at ease.

 

5. Ask your child’s opinion

Even if they tick off all the boxes and seem perfect in your books, you still need to ask your child’s opinion as they are the ones who will be spending their days with them. 

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